Estonia considers Nutri-Score labels to promote healthier food choices by autumn

Estonia is weighing whether to adopt the Nutri-Score food labelling system by autumn this year. The scheme uses colours and letters to show how healthy a product is, with green marking the best options. If approved, businesses in Estonia could choose to display the labels voluntarily.

The Nutri-Score system rates food based on energy, saturated fats, salt, sugars, fibre, and fruit or vegetable content. It is already in use across several EU countries, such as France, Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands. However, it remains optional in Germany despite stricter calculation rules introduced in 2026.

The European Union once considered a unified labelling system but faced opposition from Italy. While some nations have embraced Nutri-Score, no official EU-wide figures confirm how many have made it mandatory. In Estonia, the Chamber of Agriculture and Commerce has criticised the scheme, claiming it oversimplifies food as 'good' or 'bad' and could mislead consumers.

Estonia's potential move aims to encourage healthier eating habits. The government has stressed that participation would be voluntary for food producers and retailers.

A final decision on Estonia's adoption of Nutri-Score is expected by autumn. If implemented, the system would appear on packaging as a voluntary guide for shoppers. The outcome will depend on further discussions between policymakers and industry groups.